TITLE: Seasons of Life
TEXT:
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
1
To everything
there is
a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven:
2
A time
to be born, And a time to die; A time to plant, And a time to pluck
what is
planted;
3
A time
to kill, And a time to heal; A time to break down, And a time to build up;
4
A time
to weep, And a time to laugh; A time to mourn, And a time to dance;
5
A time
to cast away stones, And a time to gather stones; A time to embrace, And a time
to refrain from embracing;
6
A time to gain, And a time to lose; A time to
keep, And a time to throw away;
7
A time to tear, And a time to sew; A time to
keep silence, And a time to speak;
8
A time to love, And a time to hate; A time of
war, And a time of peace.
PROPOSITION:
Like the seasons, life is a journey through seasons.
QUESTION:
What?
KEY WORD:
Seasons
SCRIPTURE READING:
INTRODUCTION:
As children grow we talk about stages they are in.
I am sure there are many ways to identify the parts of our lives.
All of nature is part of the natural cycle 4 seasons.
The difference is that we only go through the cycle once.
For us, it is more of a journey than a cycle.
SPRING: PREPARATION AND DEVELOPMENT FOR LIFE
Development rapid growth, rapid learning walk, talk
Education K, Elem., HS, College
Prepare for life work, marriage, family
CHURCH
Teach, install faith, begin to be active
VBS, Classes, Youth activities
SUMMER: THE PRIME OF LIFE
25 45 = Prime of life
Reach the peak in your career and family
More active, stronger
Can be years of distraction See Matthew 13:22 (thorny ground)
Wealth This group:
Makes more money than at any other time
Is deeper in debt house, college, children
CHURCH More talent and ability but less time and dedication
FALL: WORKING SMARTER
45 65 = Time to work smarter (instead of harder)
As body slows down mind is able to more than compensate
Take on leadership roles community, church, organizations
CHURCH leadership elder, deacon, teacher, preacher
WINTER: TIME, TIME, TIME
65 and up = More time and less resources
Retire from occupation, time to volunteer
End coming We realize that life is nearing its end
We may have 10, 15, 20 years
Health declines, strength diminishes, stamina wanes
CHURCH -
Many retire turn over duties to others
This season has more wisdom, maturity and can be of great service
Conclusion
Which season are you in right now?
Are you ready for the next season of your life?
What are you doing right now in the current season of life?